Luke James staying away - Hartlepool United boss Colin Cooper

Hartlepool boss Colin Cooper has revealed wantaway striker Luke James has not been seen at the club since Tuesday.

Last season's top goalscorer has submitted two transfer requests following interest from League 1 Peterborough and was expected at a meeting to discuss his future on Thursday.

However, Cooper confirmed the 19-year-old did not turn up and has not been seen since training on Tuesday.

Following Saturday's 2-1 win at AFC Wimbledon, Cooper clarified the situation, saying: "Luke played against Dagenham last Tuesday. The squad had Wednesday off and I expected to see Luke at training on Thursday.

"He didn't turn up, didn't let anyone know he wasn't coming to work.

"He wasn't with us on Friday and the same today (Saturday) - he hasn't turned in for training at Maiden Castle with the lads who weren't part of the squad.

"I cannot answer for him, other than that he has chosen not to come into work.

"A lot has been said that I'm not happy about at all, but I cannot have a meeting with a player if he doesn't turn up.''